Abstract
THE 3′-OH poly(A) segment of globin mRNA ensures the stability of the message when injected into Xenopus oocytes1–4. We recently developed5 a specific method for the removal of the poly(A) tail from globin mRNA, based on synchronous processive phosphorolysis of mRNA using molar excess of E. coli polynucleotide phosphorylase at 0 °C. When injected into Xenopus oocytes, deadenylated globin mRNA is translated for a relatively short period and then rapidly degraded1,2. Native poly(A)-containing mRNA, however, is considerably more stable in the same conditions and is translated for extended periods of time1,2,7. The poly (A) segment itself is responsible for the stability of native globin mRNA in Xenopus oocytes since poly(A) re-addition to previously deadenylated mRNA restores the functional stability of the message3. We do not yet know, however, how poly(A) exerts its protective function; furthermore, the mechanism of degradation of poly(A)-free mRNA is not known. We report here the use of the enhancing effects of haemin on the translation of α-globin mRNA in frog oocytes6 to establish that, in these cells, the degradation of injected poly(A)-free α-globin mRNA is linked to its translation.
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HUEZ, G., MARBAIX, G., BURNY, A. et al. Degradation of deadenylated rabbit α-globin mRNA in Xenopus oocytes is associated with its translation. Nature 266, 473–474 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1038/266473a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/266473a0
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